The Teams That Have Never Been Relegated From the Premier League
Since the creation of the Premier League in 1992, only six clubs have achieved something very rare in modern football: staying in England’s top division every single season. Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur have never been relegated.
The Premier League was established in the 1992–1993 season after a major restructuring of English football that transformed the top tier of the sport. Since then, dozens of teams have competed in the league, but only six have managed to remain in the division continuously for more than three decades.
These clubs represent not only sporting consistency but also financial and institutional strength within English football. Interestingly, all six teams come from just three cities: London, Liverpool, and Manchester.
The Six Clubs That Have Always Stayed in the Top Flight
Throughout the more than 30 seasons played since the Premier League was founded, Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur are the only teams that have never dropped out of the competition.
Each of these clubs has experienced different eras of success. Manchester United, for instance, dominated English football throughout the 1990s and early 2000s under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Chelsea later emerged as a major European powerhouse following significant investment in the 2000s.
Meanwhile, Liverpool has enjoyed a strong resurgence in recent years, winning major domestic and European titles. Arsenal has maintained its status as one of the most stable clubs in the league, while Tottenham Hotspur has become a regular participant in European competitions. Despite several difficult seasons, Everton has also managed to preserve its place in the top division.
The Curious Case of Manchester City
One surprising fact is that Manchester City, currently one of the most dominant clubs in world football, is not part of this exclusive group.
The club was relegated twice during the Premier League era, first in 1996 and again in 2001. This makes Manchester City the only member of the so-called “Big Six” — Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur — that has played in the Championship during this period.
Clubs With the Most Premier League Seasons
Behind the six ever-present clubs are several historic teams that have also enjoyed long runs in the competition.
Among them are Newcastle United and Aston Villa, both with around 30 seasons in the Premier League, while West Ham United also ranks among the clubs with the longest presence in England’s top flight.
